Help stamp out wildlife crime

Your article (Cruel Britannia, G2, 4 January) made horrific reading, exposing not only the unimaginable suffering of badgers illegally baited but also the extent of cruelty to many other species illegally pursued, tortured and killed by people using vicious dogs as status symbols.

The article has inspired us to unite as representatives of the animal welfare community and as concerned, compassionate individuals to unanimously condemn this appalling criminality. We ask for increased vigilance from users of the countryside who may be in a position to catch these despicable criminals in action or as landowners to prevent their access. Cruelty to animals in this way is barbaric and the perpetrators must be brought to justice and feel the full force of the law. It is already evident that more and more people are prepared to show courage by reporting sightings of suspected wildlife crime, gathering evidence and helping to prosecute those involved.

This inhumane and illegal activity must stop. The advice for anyone who suspects badger baiting or any crime against wildlife is taking place is as follows. Members of the public should always avoid putting themselves in danger. Where possible, details of location, vehicles involved (colour, make, registration number) should be obtained, plus descriptions of perpetrators and ideally, photographs. Then move quietly out of sight and earshot and ring 999 immediately to pass on the details; ask for immediate attendance by the police and obtain an incident number.